How to Make Bunk Beds Safe: Tips Every Parent Should Know

 

How to Make Bunk Beds Safe
Bunk beds are a brilliant solution for saving space and adding a bit of adventure to bedtime—but with great fun comes great responsibility! If you’re a parent wondering how to keep your children safe while they snooze in style, we’ve got you covered. At Strictly Beds and Bunks, our mission goes beyond comfort and durability—we’re fierce champions of safety too.

 

Whether you’re purchasing your first set of bunk beds or want to ensure your current setup is safe as houses, these tips will give you peace of mind.

 

1. Start with a Safe, Heavy-Duty Design

 

Not all bunk beds are created equal. Look for frames that are robust, stable, and compliant with BS EN747:2019 Part 1 & 2 safety standards. All our beds are made from solid pine and engineered to endure the test of time (and children).

 

2. Fix It to the Wall for Extra Stability

 

Bunk beds, especially tall models, can develop a slight wobble if placed on uneven floors. That’s why we provide wall brackets with every bunk bed. Attaching them securely minimises movement and adds a layer of reassurance—think of it as anchoring your mini skyscraper.

 

3. Guardrails: Not Optional, Always Essential

 

Ensure the top bunk has guardrails on both sides, even if one is against the wall. Rails should be at least 16cm above the mattress to prevent rolling. This becomes extra crucial when you upgrade to a thicker 20cm mattress (which, conveniently, our beds can handle while staying within safety specs).

 

4. Mattress Depth Matters

Most bunk beds only allow for a 15cm mattress—but not ours. Our designs safely accommodate up to 20cm, ensuring better comfort without compromising safety. Always ensure there’s enough rail height left above the mattress to prevent falls.

 

5. Choose the Right Ladder Setup

 

 

Wide, easy-grip rungs and a securely fixed ladder are key. Avoid placing the ladder near windows or radiators, and teach your child to always use the ladder—no shortcuts allowed!

 

For nighttime use, consider a clip-on lamp or soft nightlight to illuminate their path.

 

6. Teach Your Children Safe Habits

According to RoSPA, many bunk bed accidents happen during play. Establish clear rules:

 

• No roughhousing or bouncing on the bed
• One person at a time on the top bunk
• Use the ladder every time

A fun idea? Tell younger kids the top bunk is a royal throne—and only the reigning monarch may climb it.

 

7. Perform Monthly Safety Checks

 

Make it a habit to:

 

• Tighten bolts and screws
• Check for splinters or cracks
• Ensure the ladder and guardrails are secure

Think of it as your bunk bed MOT.

 

8. Accessory Upgrades to Consider

 

Want to go above and beyond?

 

• Ladder treads for grip
• Guard rail extensions
• Nightlights or clip-on lamps for visibility
• Ladder blockers for added safety during playtime

Why Choose Strictly Beds and Bunks?

 

Our beds aren’t just stylish and sturdy—they’re built with your family’s safety in mind. Every design meets BS EN747:2019 Part 1 & 2 safety standards and is made using sustainable timber from responsibly managed forests.

 

We offer a free wall bracket with every bunk bed, a recycling programme that gives old beds new life, and friendly aftersales support via our Help Centre.

 

Explore our full range of bunk beds today and give your family a safer, greener sleep solution.

 

Learn more about how we recycle and reuse our products.

 

About Strictly Beds and Bunks

Strictly Beds and Bunks is a UK-based manufacturer specialising in high-quality, heavy-duty wooden beds made from sustainable timber. Proudly family-run, we design and build every bed in-house, ensuring unbeatable durability, value, and safety. All our bunk beds meet BS EN747:2019 Part 1 & 2 safety standards and come with wall brackets for added stability. With our own nationwide delivery service, parts replacement programme, and recycling initiative, we’re committed to giving customers peace of mind—from checkout to bedtime.